A face covering is not needed when you are outside walking, exercising, or otherwise outdoors if you are able to regularly stay 6 feet away from other people who do not live with you.

Use cloth face coverings. Do not use medical masks.

Wear fabric face coverings, such as cloth face masks, scarves, and bandanas. The face covering must fit over your nose and mouth.

It is important to save medical-grade surgical masks and N95 respirators for healthcare workers and people who have special health needs.

To protect yourself, wear face coverings properly.

Your mask should cover your nose and mouth at all times.

Always wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before you put on a face covering and after removing it.

Change your face covering when it gets moist.

Wash your face covering after each use.

Some people do not need to follow this directive, including:

Children ages 2 years and younger. Babies and toddlers under age two should never wear cloth face coverings.

Children ages 2-12 years. Children in this age group should only wear a face covering if a parent or caregiver supervises to make sure it’s worn safely.

Anyone with a disability that makes it hard for them to wear or remove a face covering.

Anyone who is deaf and moves their face and mouth to communicate.

Anyone who has been advised by a medical professional to not wear a face covering because of personal health issues.

Individuals are strongly urged to comply with this Directive. There is no criminal, civil, or financial penalty for failing to wear a face covering in these settings.

Businesses and individuals must continue to follow all existing COVID-19 orders from the Local Health Officer, Governor, or other local, state, or federal regulatory agencies, and any other relevant local, state, or federal civil rights laws.

Businesses are required to post signage advising individuals to wear face coverings on the premises. Businesses can download a sign that can be used for this purpose at http://www.kingcounty.gov/masks, or download the PDF below.